On May 27, 2026, Europe experienced an unprecedented May heat dome, with London reaching 35°C. This extreme event led to crowded beaches and early harvests across the continent.
According to the UK Met Office, the temperature in London hit 35°C on May 27, breaking the previous May record of 32.8°C set in 1944. The heat dome, a high-pressure system trapping hot air, affected much of Western Europe.
In France, beaches along the Côte d'Azur were packed as temperatures soared to 38°C in Nice. Farmers reported early harvests of wheat and grapes, with some crops ripening two weeks ahead of schedule.
Health authorities issued warnings about heatstroke and dehydration, urging people to stay hydrated and avoid peak sun hours. The heat dome is expected to persist until May 30, with temperatures gradually easing.